Brief Answer: EXPLAINED BELOW Detailed Answer: Hello XXXX Thanks for writing to us with your health concern. Congratulations on your impending parenthood ! Back pain during pregnancy is very common, particularly from the second trimester of pregnancy onwards. This is because the uterus grows and occupies the abdomen. It puts pressure on the muscles of the back and the strain leads to backache. Also, the posture of a pregnant lady becomes unnatural due to the lordosis ( backward bending ) which is caused by the weight of the gravid ( pregnant ) uterus. She should sleep in the left lateral position, propping up the back with 2 - 3 soft pillows. She should not wear heels. She should walk carefully, with soft cushioned footwear. Get her tested for calcium and vitamin D deficiency ( more than 90 % of women have this during pregnancy ). If positive , then she should start daily calcium and vitamin D supplements. She can take a hot water bottle for pain relief. Mild rubbing with liniment like Iodex will also help. If the pain does not relent, she should consult an Orthopedic Surgeon for complete evaluation. Regarding the foods to be taken - Take foods rich in calcium - bananas, walnuts, fish, milk, dairy products. Take foods rich in iron - meat, liver, bone marrow soups, beetroot, green leafy vegetables alongwith lemon, amla ( vitamin C which helps iron absorption ) Have daily exposure to mild sunshine ( early morning or evening sunshine ) on exposed skin of the back, hands and legs. Take small frequent meals instead of 2 -3 big ones. Avoid eating for 3 - 4 hours before sleep ( take early dinner ) and have a glass of hot milk with saffron before sleeping if hungry. Eat home cooked, bland , mild food ( roti, dal, rice, vegetables, curd ). Avoid sweets, pickles, fried foods, outside stuff, colas, pizzas, canned and preserved and processed foods. Have plenty of fresh vegetables and fresh fruits which are seasonal. Increase intake of fluids and liquids as that will increase the fluid around the baby - water, buttermilk, lemon juice, kanji etc. All the best. Please feel free to ask for further clarifications.

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